Speakers
Description
The study explores how English-majored students at C1 level followed the devised steps in the course guide to conduct an interactive forum on contemporary topics and what sub-skills they could gain from this activity. The study focused on the course ‘English for Contemporary Topics’, which involved employing news related to six current topics to reach expected learning outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was applied to collect data from a survey questionnaire administered to 125 students and five class observations throughout the course. The findings showed that most students were willing to organize each forum based on such steps. It was also found that students could practice and improve the 21st century skills (4Cs skills) namely critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. Specifically, the students had the ability to analyze information and arguments, evaluate evidence and claims, generate new ideas and solutions, negotiate and compromise, respect diverse perspectives, use various communication tools and media and present information persuasively. It is implied that organizing and participating in in-class forums enables students to learn by doing and familiarize themselves with indispensable skill sets for their future.
Biography
Can Thuy Linh is a teacher of English at Faculty of English Language and Culture, University of Languages and International Studies, Viet Nam National University, Ha Noi. She has been teaching English for 21 years. Her main areas of interest are English teaching methodology, extensive reading and teaching English to young learners.
Bui Thi Anh Duong is a teacher of English at Faculty of English Language and Culture, University of Languages and International Studies, Viet Nam National University, Ha Noi. She has been teaching English for 21 years. Her main areas of interest are English teaching methodology and testing and assessment.
